Learning the Land: CSCW in the Arctic

Abstract

Interactions between researchers and northern
communities involving geographical information are a
crucial part of northern research in Canada. Currently,
such interactions are mediated with paper-based maps
and transparent overlays, a method that is time
consuming and awkward, and that often loses critical
interaction data. However, people in northern
communities are often unwilling to use computers and
projection technologies that would enhance such
interactions. We conducted interviews with four
researchers with extensive experience in northern
research to determine the requirements for a new tool
that would assist with geographical representation
tasks yet remain palatable to community members. The
result is a tabletop interface design modified for
increased tracking of user interaction, durability,
portability, and small interaction areas, that retains the
look and feel of paper-based interactions. The tabletop
will display GIS software with simple navigation and
map modification controls.